The SOT Annual Meeting is the largest meeting of its kind. This annual event features a broad range of scientific sessions and a thematic program that provides partici-pants with a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge in topical areas and interact with leaders in their respective disciplines. The scientific program includes a plenary session, the MRC Lecture, symposia, work-shops, roundtable discussions, informational sessions, regional sessions, as well as platform and poster sessions. The Society anticipates that more than 6,500 toxicologists from more than 50 countries will attend. The SOT Annual Meeting also features the ToxExpo, which is the largest exhibition dedicated to toxicology and the biomedical sciences. The exhibition features 350 exhibitors, exhibitor-hosted sessions, and the opportunity to debut cutting-edge products, services, and technologies.

You Will Want to Attend Because…

Innovative Perspectives

The SOT Annual Meeting provides the most complete and in-depth coverage of toxicology. The Scientific Program Committee’s (SPC) mission is to devise a scientific program that covers the diverse areas of science that toxicology encompasses. The meeting is the venue for toxicologists to learn about the scientific advances that have taken place over the past 12 months. The Scientific Program Committee reviews more than 2,500 abstracts to deliver the most comprehensive and up-to-date program imaginable.

In-Depth Analysis

The Scientific Program Committee has devised a thematic program that encompasses five themes of topical interest. This year, these themes are:

Advancing Clinical and Translational Toxicology and Application of Biomarkers

Enhancing Strategies for Risk Assessment

New Science and Perspectives Surrounding Environmental and Occupational Exposures

Safety Assessment: Mechanisms and Novel Methods

Stem Cell Models for Integrated Biology

Countless Networking Opportunities

With more than 6,500 toxicologists from more than 50 countries in attendance, this five-day event allows everyone the opportu-nity to network with colleagues and leading scientists from around the world.

A Global Audience

More than 20 percent of the attendees come from countries as far away as Australia, Egypt, China, Latin America, and Africa. Toxicologists can explore lessons learned, share scientific findings, and novel approaches with other toxicologists at this annual event, which is designed to showcase the year’s latest in research.

Value

The SOT Annual Meeting is one of the most cost-effective meetings you can attend. For example, you pay $300 for early-bird registration, compared to an average cost of $461 for similar toxicology society meetings. Also, SOT has arranged air carrier dicounts and has reserved SOT Annual Meeting attendee discounted rates rooms at various hotels in the Phoenix area through the SOT hotel room block. If you need to provide your employer with additional justification for attending the SOT Annual Meeting, to the SOT Annual Meeting website to find more information about the importance of this annual five-day event and why it should be the one meeting you attend.

Why Attend ToxExpo?

An Exhibition Extraordinaire

The ToxExpo is the toxicology profession’s largest trade show. Attendees and exhibitors from around the world gather to exchange information on the latest products and services that science has to offer. Exhibitors debut cutting-edge products and attendees have an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge about the latest advances from more than 350+ exhibitors. The benefits of this exhibition extend far beyond the three-day event building and sustaining partnerships.

Use the new and enhanced 2014 mobile event app or the event website to create a list of exhibitors with which you want to connect at ToxExpo. You can search the exhibitor listing to view detailed exhibitor information and pinpoint their location on the interactive ToxExpo map.

The following are the 2014 ToxExpo hours:

Monday

9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Tuesday

8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Wednesday

8:30 AM–4:30 PM

$500 Daily Prize Drawing!

Drawings will take place on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in the Exhibit Hall. A $500 American Express Gift card is awarded each day. Drop your business cards in the ToxExpo prize drawing boxes found in all Diamond Level Supporter booths.

Daily Access All Year

ToxExpo is available throughout the year at ToxExpo.com, which features the latest in toxicology-related products and services. The website is a valuable tool for the policymaker, scientist, student, or anyone who is looking for the best that toxicology has to offer.

A Great Opportunity for Exhibitors

We’ve Got the Numbers You Want
We are expecting to attract more than 6,500 scientists and industry professionals to attend SOT’s 53rd Annual Meeting and ToxExpo. What better opportunity to…

meet face-to-face.

build relationships with new prospects.

network with exhibiting companies.

New Faces/New Leads Every Year
Research shows that 55 percent of the professional toxicologists who will attend the 2014 Annual Meeting and ToxExpo did not attend the 2013 Meeting.

Online Marketplace at ToxExpo.com
ToxExpo exhibitors are featured online year around for maximum visibility and exposure. ToxExpo.com is a rich resource for all the services and products toxicologists need throughout the year.

ToxExpo Attendees Are Engaged in One or More of the Following Areas of Research

Biological Modeling

Biomarkers

Biotechnology

Carcinogenesis

Cardiovascular Toxicology

Comparative and Veterinary

Clinical and Translational Toxicology

Dermal Toxicology

Drug Discovery Toxicology

Epigenetics

Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues

Food Safety

Immunotoxicology

In Vitro and Alternative Methods

Inflammation and Disease

Inhalation and Respiratory

Mechanisms

Medical Device

Metals

Mixtures

Molecular Biology

Nanotoxicology

Neurodegenerative Disease

Neurotoxicology

Occupational and Public Health

Ocular Toxicology

Regulatory and Safety Evaluation

Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology

Risk Assessment

Stem Cells

Toxicologic and Exploratory Pathology

For more information on exhibiting at the largest toxicology trade show in the world, please visit ToxExpo.com, or contact Ray Luca at 703.438.3115 ext. 1454.

Weather

Phoenix has a subtropical desert climate, typical of the Sonoran Desert in which it lies. Phoenix has extremely hot summers and warm winters. The average temperature for March is 62.2°F. For an up-to-date, detailed weather forecast, visit the National Weather Service Forecast Office.

Phoenix Convention Center

The SOT 53rd Annual Meeting and ToxExpo will be held in the West and North Buildings at the Phoenix Convention Center located at 100 N. 3rd Street in downtown Phoenix. A multiphased $600 million expansion project has nearly tripled the size of the Phoenix Convention Center making it one of the top 20 convention venues in North America. The design of the new convention center aims to reference the unique Arizona landscape. Steel canopies extend over 3rd Street to create shade. The large glass and stone atrium in the West Building represents the unique angles of light of an Arizona canyon. Colors, textures and finishes capture the warm hues of the Sonoran Desert and the cool tones of the Arizona desert sky.

The Phoenix Convention Center has made artwork and the inspiration of native environments a critical component of its ongoing vision. Three themes are ever present in the architecture and art work: memory, contrast, and shelter. These themes are also woven throughout the diverse tapestry of artwork commissioned nationally and internationally for the Phoenix Convention Center and publicly displayed here for your viewing pleasure.

Each year, we welcome more than 6,500 attendees to the Society of Toxicology’s Annual Meeting and ToxExpo. With almost 3,000 presentations, this meeting is the largest international forum for toxicological research. The Society does not permit photography or the electronic capture of scientific sessions in meeting rooms or the Exhibit Hall without the consent of the session chair and the
presenter(s)/author(s). This policy also includes photographing colleagues against the backdrop of scientific posters on display without the express consent of the presenting author(s).

Photographing or videotaping in the Exhibit Hall is prohibited.

Electronic capture of scientific sessions by any method is prohibited.

All cell phones and electronic devices must be put on mute while attending scientific sessions.

The policies adopted above will be enforced by the Society. Those individuals who do not comply will be asked to leave the session or Exhibit Hall floor. If you have any questions regarding these policies, please contact the SOT Headquarters Office.

Emergency/Facility Security

If an emergency should occur while at the Phoenix Convention Center, proceed directly to the Information Desk located in the North and West Buildings and speak to the venue host or pickup the house phone and dial 85. You will be connected directly to the 24-hour manned security department at the Convention Center. From your cell phone, dial 602.262.7271, which will connect directly to security. There is also a HELP button located on the light control panel in the back each meeting room. This will connect you to security.

Please note that in accordance with regulations, the First Aid Administrator is not permitted to dispense any medication.

SOT Pavilion

Do you know all the resources available through SOT and where to find them? Stop by the SOT Pavilion to learn about SOT activities, membership benefits, strategic initiatives, and the Endowment Fund. Learn about materials to support the discipline of toxicology and information on K–12 and public outreach. It is a one-stop shop for all your questions and member needs. The Pavilion is located inside the ToxExpo Exhibit Hall. It is open the following hours:

Monday

9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Tuesday

8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Wednesday

8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Poster Displays

Global Gallery of Toxicology

Toxicology Societies from around the world are invited to participate in the Global Gallery of Toxicology. Now in its fourth year, posters of these sister societies will be prominently displayed during the meeting, showcasing their formation, key accomplishments, strategic initiatives, and activities. The 2014 Global Gallery poster session will be listed in the scientific program with a “Representative Attended” poster time from 11:45 am–12:15 pm on Monday, March 24. The goal of SOT and of all these societies is to increase the reliance of international decision makers on the science of toxicology and to advance human health and disease prevention. For more information about participating in the Global Gallery, please contact Susan Simmons 703.438.3115 ext. 1602.

RC, SIG, SS Posters

SOT will have dedicated poster space avail-able for the Regional Chapters, Special Interest Groups, and Specialty Sections at the 2014 SOT Annual Meeting. The poster area will be located adjacent to the SOT Pavilion in the ToxExpo Exhibit Hall and will be attended on Monday between 11:45 am and 12:15 pm.

Scientific ePosters

SOT is pleased to offer our poster presenters the opportunity to share their research electronically as well as in their assigned poster sessions. Poster presenters will be able to upload their ePosters beginning in late February. ePosters will be available to meeting attendees at kiosks located in the Exhibit Hall during ToxExpo. Attendees will also be able to access ePosters though the meeting event app anytime during the meeting.

The possibility of demonstrators is very real given the nature of our conference. Events of this nature range from verbal confrontations, protests, strikes, to riots. We recommend the following procedures in the event of demonstrations:

Have your name badge available upon entering the Convention Center. Wear your name badge in the Convention Center. When leaving the facility, remove it so as to blend with other people.

If you see a demonstration or protest beginning, please contact any member of the SOT Annual Meeting staff and they will initiate an SOT response. If you see actions that appear threatening, notify the nearest security officer.

Do not engage, defend either side, or subdue person(s) in any type of disturbance. Demonstrators are usually trying to attract media attention. Don’t help them!

SOT representatives will respond to media inquires. Do not participate in interviews or other media responses.

In the unlikely event that outsiders disrupt a scientific session or other event, SOT security officials have well-developed contingency plans in place. Please follow directions from the chairperson and avoid becoming involved in the situation.

Safety Tips

Walk “smart” when you leave the Convention Center:

Know your destination and the best way to reach it.

Travel along sidewalks in lighted areas at night, and don’t walk alone.

Establish a “buddy” system with another delegate to the convention.

Share schedules and check up on each other periodically.

Build your awareness of unknown surroundings by reviewing local information.

Laptop computers are attractive, easy targets for thieves. Be sure your laptop is in a secure place.

Jackets with pockets provide a convenient alternative for women to reduce the chance for lost or stolen handbags.

Our first priority is safety. The best way to stay safe is to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid situations where you feel uncomfortable.

Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities

The Phoenix Convention Center and most of the SOT hotels are accessible to persons with disabilities. If you require special services, please mark the appropriate box on the Annual Meeting Registration Form.

The official attire for the Annual Meeting is business casual. No coat or tie is required! We encourage you to bring comfortable clothing and shoes. Because meeting rooms may seem cold, please bring a sweater or jacket and/or dress in layers.

Badge

Annual Meeting attendees who register by January 31, 2014, will receive badges and registration materials in the mail. Attendees who already have their 2014 Annual Meeting badges do not need to stand in the registration line. If you have registered by the meeting date and have NOT received your badge by mail, or need a replacement badge, go to the “BADGE PICK UP” registration counter to pick up your badge. You will be asked to show a photo ID.

If you have not registered for the meeting before you arrive in Phoenix, please complete the on-site Registration Form found at the kiosks in the registration area and proceed to the appropriate registration line. All attendees should stop by the registration area to pick up their registration materials.

Business Center

The Phoenix Convention Center Business Center is conveniently located in the lobby on the 100 Level of the North Building. The Business Center offers services such as UPS shipping, common office supplies, Internet access, high-quality full color and B&W copying, printing, and uploading documents from a memory stick or CD.

Child care services will not be provided during the Annual Meeting. Arrangements may be made by contacting the concierge desk at your hotel. To ensure safety, children are not permitted in session rooms, the Exhibit Hall, or the poster area.

Coat/Luggage Check

For your convenience, a luggage/coat check will be available in the Registration area. The coat/luggage check will be open Sunday, March 23 through Thursday, March 27. There will be a fee of $2 per item checked. Laptops, cameras, and other electronics will not be accepted.

Hours of operation:

Sunday

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Monday

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Tuesday

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM–12:00 Noon

Coat/luggage check hours are subject to change.

Social Events

The SOT Annual Meeting hosts several social events for student and postdoctoral fellows. For a full listing of events please visit the Social Events section of the Annual Meeting website.

The Program and The Toxicologist

A copy of the printed version of The Toxicologist may be preordered via the Registration Form or purchased on-site while supplies last for
$25.

The Toxicologist PDF is available for download via the SOT website before the meeting and via the Annual Meeting app. The Toxicologist archive is available on the SOT website.

Full abstracts can be accessed via the event mobile app or event website available on the SOT website and app market places in late January.

The Program PDF is available for download via the SOT website (late January).

Copies of the Program can be picked up on-site. In an effort to conserve resources, the printed Program will be mailed ONLY by request (in the US
and Canada only). If you wish to receive your printed Program before the meeting (request made by February 28), please select the “I want to receive
the printed Program before the meeting by mail” checkbox on the Registration Form, and the Program will be mailed in late February (in the US and
Canada only).

Annual Meeting Support

Meeting Support

The Society would like to invite your organization to be a supporter of the 2014 Annual Meeting. SOT appreciates the generous contributions of support that make the SOT Annual Meeting possible. Supporter names are prominently displayed on the Annual Meeting website, as well as in print materials that are distributed before and during the Annual Meeting. Supporters are also recognized through signage displayed around the Convention Center during the Annual Meeting.

There are five levels of support available: Diamond ($10,000 or more), Platinum ($5,000–$9,999), Gold ($2,500–$4,999), Silver ($2,000–$2,499), and Contributors ($1,000–$1,999).

The goal of ToxExpo’s management team is to make sure that you make the most of your presence at the exhibition. ToxExpo is the largest event of its kind and being part of the show is only half of the solution. Marketing plans need to be well-thought out with a strategy that includes pre- and postmeeting promotions for you to reach your return on investment and drive attendees out of the aisles and into your booth.

You will find an entire menu of supporting opportunities designed to assist your organization in establishing a leadership position in the 2014 exhibition.

To help you get the most out of your marketing dollars, contact Ray Luca at 703.438.3115 ext. 1454.

Date and time varies by group (Meet at the Bulletin Board in Registration Area)

This event is an informal gathering of a small group of students and a Toxicology Expert. Sign up via the Chat with an Expert section of the SOT website. The groups are matched by research interests and the Expert for each group identifies a time and place to assemble. Details for the group meeting will be sent advance of meeting.

Concessions
Concession stands are available in Exhibit Hall Monday 9:00 am–4:30 pm and Tuesday and Wednesday 8:30 am–4:30 pm. Breakfast and lunch items will be available for purchase, as well as coffee, soda, bottled water, and snacks. Seating is available in the Concession areas in the Exhibit Hall. Concessions are run by Aventure Catering, providing outstanding and delectable food and beverage in the Phoenix Convention Center.

The Metro Marché, located in the North Building, has four food outlets (Crust, Urban Wok, B3, and Tortillas) open for lunch from 10:30 am–2:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday. City Central Coffee will be open in the mornings at 7:00 am for coffee/pastries. Starbucks, located in the West Building, is open daily from 6:30 am–4:00 pm.

SOT knows the importance of staying connected to your daily activities while attending the Annual Meeting and provides several ways for you to access the Internet while at the Phoenix Convention Center.

@SOT—Internet Access and App Center
One-on-one app training and support is available during the meeting—stop in early to get the most out of the 2014 SOT mobile event app and event website.

SOT will provide computers you can use to access the Internet. These computers are available to attendees in the @SOT center, located outside of ToxExpo.

Free Wireless Internet AccessAs a service to Annual Meeting attendees, SOT will be providing free wireless Internet access in designated areas of the Phoenix Convention Center, including the entire North Building and the 100 and 300 Levels of the West Building. SOT is providing wireless Internet access to help attendees access a new SOT Annual Meeting App and help make the Annual Meeting a more productive and enjoyable experience.

To connect to the free wireless Internet, browse the available wireless networks and select the SOT2014 wireless network. When prompted for a password, use sotguest to connect to the network. Once connected, launch your web browser and the SOT welcome splashpage will automatically load.

Lost and Found

Lost and found articles may be taken to the SOT Headquarters Office, Room 224A, of the Phoenix Convention Center. Any items left in the office after 11:30 am, Thursday, March 27, will be taken back to SOT Headquarters. If you do not remove your poster at the end of your session, you will find it on the “Poster
Retrieval Tables” located at the rear of the Exhibit Hall to the left and right of poster sections 300 and 500. Any posters left behind at 4:30 pm on Wednesday will be taken to SOT Headquarters Office, Room 224A, Thursday morning, March 27. All posters not claimed by 1:00 pm on Thursday, March 27, will be recycled.

Media Support Services

The Society of Toxicology (SOT) welcomes accredited representatives of Media Organizations. Journalist receive complimentary credentials for all meeting sessions as well as media kits. Interviews can be arranged with Council, members, and speakers. A press room will be available for reporters. For more information on how to register for the Annual Meeting, visit the Just for the Media section of the website. For more information about the program and room location, please contact:

The Scientific Program Committee has created a time on Tuesday, March 25, especially for attendee networking. We encourage you to connect and engage with your colleagues at the Annual Meeting from 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm on Tuesday between sessions. Only networking events and Exhibit Hall activities are scheduled during this time, so meet your colleagues in ToxExpo, grab a bite to eat, and grow your network!

Session Etiquette for Attendees

Attendees are encouraged to ask questions following the presentations by speakers or at the direction of the moderator. Given the importance of the scientific program to attendees and out of respect for the presenters, we ask that you adhere to the following rules of etiquette:

Cell phones and other electronic devices should be set on mute.

Electronic capture of scientific sessions by any method is prohibited.

Inviting children under the age of 15 and guest/spouse registrants into the Exhibit Hall is prohibited. Session chair must provide consent for the guest/spouse or child to attend the session.

These policies will be enforced by the Society. Individuals who do not comply will be asked to leave session.

Any items that are left behind in any of the rooms should be taken to the SOT Headquarters Office, Room 224A on the 200 Level.

The SOT Headquarters Office is located in the Phoenix Convention Center Room 224A on the 200 Level. SOT leadership and staff utilize this office to conduct SOT business while on-site. Use the office to report or reclaim lost and found
items at the Phoenix Convention Center.